Red, white and blue: It’s not just a dynamic color combination. It’s also oh so patriotic – particularly when you flaunt it in time for the Fourth of July holiday! Whether your family is hitting up one of the many southeast Michigan fireworks displays or just kicking it around a backyard barbecue, this gear is sure to get you in festive, flag-flying kind of mood. And you can find it all right in your backyard: These eight great finds are all from local mom-and-pop businesses in our readership area, which covers Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
Note: All of the listed merchandise is updated as of July 2013. To be safe, however, we recommend that you check with the shops to see if products are still available. When possible we provided a link to buy the item online, too.
Helicopter Imagination Mat Place Mat by Emily Green
Take your tyke’s creativity as sky-high as those fireworks with this adorable 11-by-17-inch laminated place mat. Kids can noodle and doodle while enjoying that Independence Day outdoor feast, thanks to the washable markers that clean up in a cinch. Buy one for $12.
Available at Bella Belli Maternity, 790 N. Old Woodward Ave. in Birmingham (248-203-2220).
Wes and Willy Stars and Stripes Swim Trunks
Custom-made for an all-American summer weekend, these boys’ swim trunks by the super-cool boys’ clothing company Wes and Willy are itching for a romper through the sprinkler (or a few cannonballs). You can grab a pair for about $33 locally, or about $42 online.
Available at Love Child, 32744 Franklin Road in Franklin (248-539-9866).
Under the Nile Scrappy Dog Stuffed Animal
This adorable little pal, made out of Egyptian organic cotton scraps, is made from leftover odds and ends from clothing made by the Under the Nile company. This 10-inch pup is friendly and machine washable. Make him yours for about $12 locally and $14 online
Available at James & Olive, 431 S. Main St. in Rochester (248-650-0700).
Hello Kitty Striped Girls Swim Suit
Ahoy there, cool cat! That’s what other beach bums will be saying to your little gal when she’s gussied up in this irresistible one-piece. You can find sizes for babies – as well as versions that’ll fit toddlers, too. Costs about $28 locally and about $24-$25 online.
Available at James & Olive, 431 S. Main St. in Rochester (248-650-0700).
Magnetic Checkers by Magnifico Go Games
Your crew will surely king you with the purchase of this clever take-it-with-you game. It’s a breeze to play – even in a bumpy car heading out to your patriotic pastimes – thanks to simple magnetism. It runs about $15.
Available at Suhm-Thing, 122 W. Maple Road in Birmingham (248-723-9832).
Spider-Man Scooter by Kiddieland
Forget the president: Ol’ Spidey’s an American hero we can all agree on! The web-slinger flings your own Peter Parker or Mary Jane off on adventures of his or her own on this nifty scooter. It’s suggested for ages 2-5 years. Runs about $45 online and $35 in-store.
Available at Toys R Us, multiple locations throughout southeast Michigan.
Osh Kosh B’Gosh Truck Shirt
Whether you buy “Detroit Three” or your family sedan hails
from another shining sea, your tyke’s bound to look USA-made in this cute little T, complete with a big-wheeled truck graphic and star-spangled sleeves. You can pick one up for about $10 (available in toddler sizes).
Available at Buy Buy Baby, multiple locations throughout southeast Michigan.
Red Ceramic Surfer Van Bank at Slades Gift Shop
Known for its fine quality kids’ collectable banks, Slades Gift Shop in West Bloomfield doesn’t disappoint with this keen ride that safely stashes away kids’ spare change – perhaps for a few extra sparklers? It costs $37.50.
Available at Slades Gift Shop, 6349 Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield (248-851-0066).
